The Railway Inn in Port Sunlight was found to be breaking lockdown laws

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A Wirral pub has been punished after it was found to be breaking the strict coronavirus lockdown laws.

People were seen gathering outside and drinking inside the Railway Inn in Port Sunlight despite clear instructions from government that all pubs should currently be closed.

Wirral Council’s licensing team was contacted and issued the Prohibition Notice following CCTV evidence viewed by Merseyside Police that individuals were found to be drinking in the premises, according to the Echo.

Council licensing manager Margaret O’Donnell said: "Whilst this is a difficult time, government guidance on social distancing is clear and it’s important that to maintain safety, these restrictions are adhered to by everyone."

Wirral Community Policing Superintendent Gary O’Rourke added: “We strongly support Wirral Council taking action against this pub or any other premises found to be in breach of government instructions on social distancing.

“Restrictions are in place in order to protect the NHS and save lives, and opening or visiting a pub is obviously not consistent with those restrictions. Some may think they are doing no harm socialising behind closed doors, but they are selfishly putting themselves, each other and their families and wider community at greater risk.

“Department of Health guidance clearly states that the COVID-19 virus is spread by close human contact which is why social distancing and self-isolation have been introduced.”

The Railway Inn is the first pub in the area to be issued with a Prohibition Notice by the council following the introduction of the restrictions on 21 March 2020.

Evidence was provided by Merseyside Police that the licensee was allowing people onto the premises and providing them with drinks.

Superintendent Gary O’Rourke added: “These are challenging times for us all, and we appreciate that business owners are feeling the financial impact of having to temporarily close their businesses but these rules are in place for the protection and benefit of everybody.

“The vast majority of people across Merseyside have made huge sacrifices since travel restrictions were introduced, and have only left home for work, essential travel or daily exercise. We thank them for the patience and strength they have shown to support this national effort.

“I would urge anyone who is aware of any business which is in breach of the government instruction to contact us so that we can take the appropriate action in order to keep everyone safe.”

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Reports that premises may be operating illegally at this time, in breach of the restrictions to remain close, will be investigated and appropriate action will be taken to protect the public.

Margaret O’Donnell added: “The message is clear, the closure of these type of premises is necessary to save lives, this being the second pub to be issued with a prohibition notice in Merseyside.

“Wirral Council will continue to work in partnership with Merseyside Police to protect the public. Premises found to be in breach of the restrictions can face the possibility of an unlimited fine and may be subject to further action in respect of their licence.”

In March The Orient pub in Speke, Liverpool was hit with a similar punishment after continuing to serve customers.